Former IND Player Explains How LSG Can Utilise Nicholas Pooran
Nicholas Pooran hasn't managed to set the IPL alight with his fireworks
Former Indian cricketer, Mohammad Kaif, has expressed his belief that the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) should grant talented West Indies batter Nicholas Pooran a greater level of freedom to play his natural game during the forthcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023.
Despite showing glimpses of his hard-hitting prowess, Pooran has failed to live up to his true potential in the IPL, as evidenced by his average of 26.06 runs and four fifties in 47 matches. LSG acquired the services of the wicketkeeper-batter for a staggering sum of 16 crore rupees during the IPL 2023 auction, which caused a stir among onlookers.
While speaking on Star Sports, Kaif highlighted that LSG's management should adopt a more relaxed approach to Pooran's performance, as placing excessive pressure on a player of his calibre may limit his output.
He suggested that mentor Gautam Gambhir and skipper KL Rahul should allow the West Indian to play freely, recognizing that players like him cannot be expected to win every match.
"I feel Gautam Gambhir and KL Rahul should give Pooran a free hand to play because a player like this cannot be pushed beyond a limit. You also cannot expect them to win you every match," said Kaif.
Furthermore, the erstwhile batsman urged the LSG management to establish realistic expectations for the dynamic left-hander, outlining that if he could help the team to win four or five of their 14-15 league matches, it would be an achievement in itself.
"You can set proper expectations with him, like if he is here to play 14-15 league matches, and if he makes Lucknow win 4-5 games, it's sufficient. Every time a player like Pooran loses his wicket, we think he didn't do well,” added the 42-year-old veteran.
Kaif also emphasized that Pooran, as a power-hitter, requires appropriate mentoring and support to help him realize his full potential. According to the retired cricketer, gestures such as putting an arm around the shoulder could make all the difference in helping him to perform at his best.
“A power-hitter like Pooran requires mentoring, be supportive with gestures like an arm around the shoulder and motivate them to bring their natural game to the next match," concluded Kaif.
 "Jatin")
